Honey #bebetter52

Did you know that honey is one of the oldest sweeteners on Earth? Not only is it yummy, adding a burst of flavor to pretty much anything, but honey is a power-food with benefits galore.

This week we encourage you to Be Better and explore the positive effects of honey.

First, honey is a natural source of carbohydrates, which provide our bodies with instant energy and strength. When it comes to athletic performance, honey improves endurance and plays a key role in preventing fatigue during exercise. So before your next workout, grab a spoonful of honey for that extra push. Or if you’re feeling lethargic in the morning, try putting honey on toast or replacing the sugar in your drink with some honey for a quick energy boost.

Honey also has antioxidant and antibacterial properties. This means honey can boost your immune system, help make your digestive system run smoothly and keep you healthy and disease-free. The antibacterial qualities are especially helpful for moisturizing and nourishing the skin. Check out this beauty treatment recipe for a carrot face mask http://realfoodforlife.com/carrot-face-mask/, which contains honey.

Try to purchase locally grown, raw honey. Local foods from the area you reside in contain immune-stimulating properties that help our bodies adapt to our environment. Raw honey is also more potent than artificial honey. Plus, buying from local farmers helps the local economy!

According to "Health Benefits of Honey", research shows that honey also has carcinogen-prevention and anti-tumor properties. Although honey contains simple sugars, ironically, it also helps regulate blood sugar. Honey’s combination of fructose and glucose aids the body in regulating blood-sugar levels.

Other fun facts about honey:

Honey is a natural cure in first-aid treatments of cuts and burns.

Honey can help combat hangovers.

Honey can soothe a sore throat and kill the bacteria that cause the infection.

Honey can even help sleeplessness. Just take a glass of hot milk and mix with a teaspoon of honey to induce sleep.

Honey can be put into all types of meals, in teas, or be used as a glaze. However you decide to use honey this week, check out Eatingwell.com for healthy recipes that use honey!

We are eager for you to explore honey this week. Post a picture of honey using #bebetter52, and we’ll donate $2 to Not For Sale. Let’s all Be Better this week.

More on Honey:

amazing-green-tea: honey is one of nature’s most effective wound dressings. Check out other health benefits of honey here.